Letters to the editor 11/30

Dutchess County Airport is a burden on taxpayers

I have flown in and out of our Dutchess County Airport when we had some airlines that used it, like Command Airways.

We should have sold this county black sheep years ago.

I agree with Dutchess County Legislator Joe Incoronato, R-Towns of Poughkeepsie and Wappinger, and Roger Higgins (Letter: "Molinaro must address allegations about airport," Nov. 11), get going and get rid of this massive burden to the county taxpayer.

Joseph V. McCloskey

Fishkill

Casinos take more than they give, so vote no

Why are there no public hearings on one of the most important legislative events of our lifetimes, the proposed amendment of the New York Constitution to allow big casino gambling? The amendment requires two legislative votes and a referendum. The first vote took place without community input in a night session. The gambling industry poured millions into legislative contributions in hope of a positive vote. They got it.

Now it's time to bring this issue into the light of day. Let the people of New York hear that communities surrounding casinos are called "sacrifice zones" because of the increased crime, bankruptcy, and loss of small local restaurants and shops which research and experience have shown will follow in the wake of casinos. Who pays for this? The state gets their cut, but we pay. Overall, casinos take far more than they give. Let's have a public discussion before we take this foolish step.

Lanny Walter, Naomi Rothberg, Susan Puretz, Arnie Lieber, Mark Knaust

executive committee, No Saugerties Casino

Saugerties

Don't give gifts that glamorize war, violence

For several years Pax Christi groups in New York have campaigned against the common practice of purchasing toys and video games that glamorize violence as gifts for children during the holiday season.

Many video games glamorize violence, encourage discrimination and make killing seem exciting and fun. Avoid such games for the young people on your list. Toys and games that encourage group play, cooperation and old-fashioned fun will offer hours of quality time. How about tickets to a theatre, concert or sporting event?

For something different and truly meaningful donate money to a worthy cause. Heifer International will send a card depicting the animal you chose to send to a family in a developing country, or give to the Arbor Day Foundation and have a tree planted in their name.

Give a charitable donation to local nonprofits working for justice. Your generosity would help them continue their work in the development of a culture of peace. Remember, don't buy any toys that encourage war and violence, choose gifts of peace and give presents from your heart. Never forget, the children are watching.

Wishing you a peace-filled season,

Madeline Labriola

Pax Christi Hudson Valley, www.nypaxchristi.org

Highland

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Letters to the editor 11/30

I have flown in and out of our Dutchess County Airport when we had some airlines that used it, like Command Airways. We should have sold this county black sheep years ago.